ROI vs. IRR: What's the Difference

Do you have investments, or are you considering investing? When it comes to handling your money, you'll need to know what ROI vs. IRR is and what it can do for you. So don't miss out on this opportunity to grow your cash. 

Read more to learn about your investment formula options.  

ROI vs. IRR

ROI stands for return on investment. Typically you can calculate your return on investment by looking at a specific period. You can measure if your return is heading positively or negatively.

To calculate, take the current number and subtract the original number. Then divide this number by the original number and multiply by 100. This will give you the rate of investment. 

ROI can be great when looking at short-term investments. But, unfortunately, it does not take into consideration the time you've had the investment. 

If the investment has increased significantly in a year, then ROI is great to use. However, if you are doing a calculation on a 30-year investment, the ROI is not accurate. 

IRR means the internal rate of return. Using an IRR calculation is the most effective way to see the health of an investment. The internal rate of return is the discount rate of the future cash flow. 

Using ROI and IRR

If you are not used to using these investment measurements, you can consult individuals who deal with these terms daily. 

Financial advisors of all experience levels use ROI, as well as individuals that know nothing about finances, and even you can use it. 

Return on investment looks closely at the gains and losses you can expect to see. Time is the most important factor when looking at any investment. 

ROI is computed with a formula, but it provides a percentage. This is the percentage you will gain or lose. 

IRR is a long formula with many moving parts. Therefore, it is best to let a computer program compute this information for you. 

Since it is complex, this is used by financial analysts, investors, and financial firms. These companies are using this formula to weigh the pros and cons of a potential investment. 

For example, by computing the IRR, a financial advisor will be able to talk about the current value of the investment, the projection of the investment, and if it has a future of bringing in more money. 

You certainly will not invest if you will lose money in the future. However, you will know for sure if the investment will perform well. IRR can help you to make that financial decision. 

Expand Your Business Knowledge Here

Employees in the financial industry can touch on the specifics with ROI vs. IRR. They can use your investments to show you how they're expected to perform or if you should skip this investment. 

Do you enjoy learning more about finances and how to get into investing? Be sure to read more of our business blogs today.